This bill mandates that each school district and accredited nonpublic school adopt policies governing the use of personal electronic communication devices by students during instructional time. The policies must prohibit students from using these devices, require them to be turned off and stored away, and allow students to leave devices at home or in vehicles. Exceptions are made for students who need to use devices for individualized education programs or medical necessities, as well as for contacting parents through designated school communication devices. Additionally, schools may implement further restrictions on device use during school-sponsored activities outside of instructional time.
Furthermore, the bill prohibits school employees from privately communicating with students via social media for official school purposes, with the exception of approved platforms for broadcasting public communications related to school functions. Schools are required to certify the adoption of these policies to the state board of education by September 1, 2026. Notably, the provisions outlined in this bill do not apply to virtual schools.